There are so many electronic gadgets these days that people do not pay much attention to how these electronic gadgets actually save energy and money. Do not overlook the advantages automatic and programmable thermostats have compared to manual thermostats.

Energy savings with programmable thermostats compared to manual thermostats

While manual thermostats do control the heat in your home, just as a programmable thermostat, programmable thermostats allow you to control the heat in your home on a more consistent basis. When trying to manually monitor your manual thermostat, there will be times when you forget to turn down that thermostat. With a programmable thermostat, you will be able to set specific times and temperatures. This way, you will not forget and you can set your heat to turn back on a little bit before you wake up.

Five types of automatic and programmable thermostats

1Electromechanical –They have manual controls, such as movable tabs to set a rotary timer and sliding lever for night and day temperature settings. However, they have limited flexibility and are only able to store the same setting for each day. These types are best for people with a strict and regular schedule.

2Digital – These thermostats have an LED or LCD digital readout, as well as data entry pads or buttons. Digital thermostats provide the most features and flexibility. They can be used with most heating and cooling systems. Digital thermostats offer precise temperature control and allow custom scheduling.

3Hybrid – These systems combine the technology of digital controls with manual slides and knobs to allow for flexibility.

4Occupancy – A setback temperature is maintained. They do not rely on the time of day. A preset period of time can be set from 30 minutes to 12 hours. Then the temperature will go back to the setback level. While these systems are great for simplicity, they do not offer the flexibility of other thermostats. These are best used for spaces that are not occupied for long periods of time.

5Light sensing – These thermostats rely on the lighting level that is preset by the owner. When the lighting is reduced, a photocell senses unoccupied spaces and allows temperatures to fall below the normal occupied temperature settings. If light levels increase, temperatures will increase to normal and comfortable levels. These are generally used in stores or offices.

The prices range from $30 to $100, except for the occupancy and light sensing types. They run around $200.

Determining the programmable time specifications best for your home

While there are five types of programmable thermostats to choose from, there are also three different programmable time sequences. Before you decide which one is best for your home, think about your schedule and how often you are away from home for regular periods of time. Consider the time you spend away at work, school and other activities your family is involved in.

Three common time sequences to choose from

17-day models are great if your daily schedule changes often. For example, if your children are home earlier on some days than others or your work schedule is not consistent. These models will give you the most flexibility. They allow you to set different programs for different days of the week, including four possible temperature periods for each day.

25+2-day models are for those of you who have a set schedule during the week and are home on the weekends. For example, you set a specific program for five days when you are at work and school and then you can set another program for those weekend days that you are likely home.

35-1-1 models are for those of you that have different schedules for Monday through Friday and another schedule on Saturdays and Sundays.

Programmable thermostats offer energy savings. Consider investing in one today. They are also easy to install for those DIY people.

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